Paper
18 August 2005 Phase shifting mask as a precision instrument for characterizing image-forming optical systems
Author Affiliations +
Abstract
A series of phase shifting test mask patterns are described to monitor various effects in image-forming optical systems. Five novel classes of test mask patterns have been developed for in-situ characterization of illumination, aberrations, and mask performance in optical lithography. The monitors combine knowledge of optical effects with the topography enabled by state-of-the-art phase shift masks to create patterns that are sensitive to one aspect of projection printing. Each design is believed to be theoretically the most sensitive pattern to the desired effect. A variety of experimental and simulation studies at 193nm wavelength have validated their scientific principles and have helped allow understanding of limitations due to realistic imaging conditions, most notably the electromagnetic interaction with mask topography. All measurements are conducted in the image plane and are advantageous when access to the remainder of the optical system is limited. Although these monitors have been developed for optical lithography, possible applications in other fields of optics are discussed.
© (2005) COPYRIGHT Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE). Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Gregory McIntyre, Garth Robbins, and Andrew Neureuther "Phase shifting mask as a precision instrument for characterizing image-forming optical systems", Proc. SPIE 5878, Advanced Characterization Techniques for Optics, Semiconductors, and Nanotechnologies II, 587808 (18 August 2005); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.612751
Lens.org Logo
CITATIONS
Cited by 1 scholarly publication.
Advertisement
Advertisement
RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS
Get copyright permission  Get copyright permission on Copyright Marketplace
KEYWORDS
Photomasks

Polarization

Point spread functions

Phase shifts

Imaging systems

Polarimetry

Fiber optic illuminators

RELATED CONTENT


Back to Top